By Bavoriat Clara
The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Gwabin Musa, OFR, has lauded the Northern Traditional Rulers Council for their steadfast commitment to peace, unity, and national stability.
In a statement issued by the Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, General Musa gave the commendation in a goodwill message delivered during the Northern Traditional Rulers’ Council General Assembly held on Tuesday, 21 October 2025, in Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State.
General Musa felicitated with His Eminence, the Sultan of Sokoto and Chairman of the Council, along with other revered traditional rulers, describing the theme of the Assembly — “Strengthening Community Collaboration for Lasting Peace and Security in Northern Nigeria” — as both timely and significant. He emphasized that the theme underscores the vital role of traditional institutions as custodians of culture, morality, and communal harmony, which are essential to achieving peace and security across the region.
Highlighting the invaluable role of traditional rulers, the Defence Chief noted that they remain the bedrock of governance and the first point of contact between the government and the people. He further stressed their importance in conflict resolution, mediation, and intelligence gathering, acknowledging that their support has greatly contributed to the operational successes of the Armed Forces in various theatres of operation.
General Musa reiterated that peace and security cannot be imposed but must be nurtured through trust, dialogue, and collaboration. He therefore called for a “whole-of-society” approach that brings together traditional institutions, youth and women groups, religious bodies, and government agencies to counter violent narratives and promote unity and tolerance.
While reaffirming the commitment of the Armed Forces of Nigeria to defending the nation’s territorial integrity and protecting its citizens, the CDS expressed gratitude for the continued cooperation and support of traditional rulers. He urged sustained partnership toward achieving enduring peace and stability in Northern Nigeria and the country at large.
General Musa concluded by commending the Northern Traditional Rulers Council for its visionary leadership and unwavering dedication to regional progress and development. He expressed optimism that the Assembly would further strengthen existing partnerships and inspire renewed hope for peace and unity.
Earlier, during a courtesy visit to the Kebbi State Government House, General Musa commended the developmental strides of the State Government and described Kebbi as “home.” He thanked the Governor for his continued support to the Armed Forces and other security agencies, noting that such collaboration is vital to the success of ongoing security operations. He reaffirmed the military’s resolve to ensure that Kebbi State, the North West, and the entire nation return to the peaceful and prosperous state they once enjoyed.
In his response, the Executive Governor of Kebbi State commended the Armed Forces for their relentless efforts in maintaining peace and security across the state. He said their dedication deserves every necessary support, which informed the government’s recent provision of vehicles and logistics to security agencies. The Governor also thanked the CDS for deploying armoured vehicles and special forces to strengthen the fight against insecurity, describing General Musa’s leadership as exemplary and inspiring.
Meanwhile, the CDS is expected to attend the final match of the ongoing General Christopher Musa Peace and Unity Cup 2025 at the FIFA Goal Project Stadium, Birnin Kebbi. The football tournament, which promotes peace, unity, and social cohesion, has attracted participants from Kebbi, Zamfara, and Sokoto States. The Governor of Kebbi State is also expected to grace the grand finale.
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